Social Darwinism
Might the future of Earth be dominated by millions of Bill Gates and Oprah Winfreys? Could the
lower class become enslaved to these superpowers? Will Buddhism and its ideal of nirvana – liberation
from worldly desires – die a plaintive death?
According to the theory of social Darwinism, the answer to these questions is "yes."
History
A British social philosopher named Herbert Spencer proposed the theory of social Darwinism in the
late 18th century. He is considered one of the first sociologists. In 1859, the publication of Charles
Darwin’s On The Origin of Species inspired Spencer to link the theory of natural selection to the
development of human societies. Darwin viewed Spencer's idea with some skepticism, so social
Darwinism could be more accurately termed social Spencerism. However, the theory gained much
support and was later used to justify imperialism, laissez-faire, racism, and even Nazism. An American
sociologist named William Graham Sumner advocated social Darwinism in the United States. The
theory became outdated in the early 20th century and was widely criticized.
Social Darwinism
Social Darwinism is a theory that applies natural selection to the evolution of individuals and society.
The theory says that (1) individuals and groups of people compete for survival and (2) superior
individuals, social groups, and races are most fit for survival. Defined here, "superior" means rich and
powerful.
Natural selection favors such "superior" individuals and groups of people for survival. Those best
suited to survive can adapt to their social environs, while the unfit fail to do so. Therefore, the fittest
members of society accumulate wealth, property, and social status. Unfit individuals and groups fall
into poverty. For humanity to progress, competition is necessary.
Social Darwinism Today
Surprisingly, the tenets of social Darwinism are still evident in today’s society. It is not restricted to
Nazism and racism. American politicians often advocate changing the welfare system to favor only
those "deserving" citizens who work hard. Government social programs are viewed as superficial
solutions to save the poor and homeless from their inherent incompetence. I can’t say whether these
notions are true, but it is surprising to see that an outdated scientific theory is perhaps at work behind
these beliefs.
Bibliography
Asma, Stephen T. "The new social Darwinism: Deserving your destitution," The Humanist, (October
1993).
"Spencer, Herbert," Encarta 97 Encyclopedia. Microsoft Corporation, 1997. CD-ROM.
"Social Darwinism," The Concise Columbia Encyclopedia, 1995.
"Social Darwinism," Encarta 97 Encyclopedia. Microsoft Corporation, 1997. CD-ROM.
Zeitlin, Irving M. "Social Darwinism," The World Book Encyclopedia, 1992, 551.